Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has the résumé of a league’s top star: two straight MVPs, a championship and a Finals MVP in the last two years. Whether he becomes the face of the NBA depends on more than trophies, but the case is strong. Here it is, along with the competition.
The Résumé
In 2024-25, Gilgeous-Alexander won the MVP and the scoring title at 32.7 points per game, then led the Thunder to the NBA title and won Finals MVP, becoming the fourth player to win all three in one season. In 2025-26 he won his second straight MVP with 83 first-place votes while averaging 31.1 points on 55.3 percent shooting, and Oklahoma City won 64 games.
Off the Court
Sports Illustrated named him its 2025 Sportsperson of the Year, and he is only the second Canadian to win multiple MVPs after Steve Nash. He is the first Canadian to win Finals MVP. His calm, team-first manner, including thanking teammates first after winning MVP, also appeals to fans.
The Competition
Nikola Jokic finished second in last year’s MVP voting and Victor Wembanyama third. Wembanyama then led San Antonio past the Thunder in the Western Conference finals and into the Finals, as we covered in our look at whether the Thunder can dominate for years. Luka Doncic won last season’s scoring title, and the Knicks, not the Thunder, are the reigning champions.
What It Would Take
To cement the title, Gilgeous-Alexander likely needs another championship or a third MVP, as well as a clear edge over Wembanyama’s rise. See also Wembanyama’s MVP case.
The Verdict
“Face of the league” is a subjective label. On results alone, Gilgeous-Alexander is the strongest candidate right now, and the next two seasons will show whether he can hold it.
Sources: Wikipedia, CBS Sports, Hoops Rumors, Olympics.com.